A guide to eating, exploring, and feeling the spirit of two unforgettable Polish cities

GoLocal #Poland: Warsaw Between the Lines

Every city keeps its secrets — hidden in the clatter of café cups, the echo of a tram late at night, and whispers through twilight streets. LeverX office locations are no different. And though we work toward the same goals, each office moves to a rhythm shaped by the urban landscape around it.

To understand what makes Warsaw truly special, we asked LeverX's ABAP Technical Architect Andrei Dvornikau to share his favorite places — from riverside walks to the quiet charm of backstreets. What he revealed is not the places that fill guidebooks, but the ones that linger in memory long after you’ve left.

Warsaw: A City in Constant Motion

I don’t live in Warsaw, but I return often enough for it to feel familiar. The city never stands still. My list of places to explore is 150 strong, and I’ve done barely a third. New cafés, pop-ups, exhibitions — every visit brings a surprise. 

What brings it closer, though, is the people. I have friends here. Not just one or two, but enough that I never feel like a visitor. Once, wandering through Śródmieście Południowe, I ran into ten familiar faces in an hour. That neighborhood remains my favorite.

Places Your Stomach Will Fall in Love With 

HOOD Cafe (Poznańska 37)

Located in the heart of Warsaw, this café captures the cozy-but-stylish vibe. Whether you're stopping by for your morning coffee or an evening catch-up, the attention to detail in both the interior design and the quality of the coffee and desserts makes the experience effortlessly charming.

Happa to Mame (Hoża 43/49)

A tiny, authentic Japanese tea house renowned for its matcha and delicate sweets. Every drink is perfectly balanced and aromatic. Sipping tea here feels like stepping into a serene alleyway in Tokyo.

“Though the space is often crowded, the wait is undoubtedly worthwhile.”

Kiki (Żurawia 16)

Who knew shawarma could become a gastronomic experience? Every ingredient is thoughtfully curated, and the sauces are particularly noteworthy. Pair your meal with a glass of natural wine, and a casual dinner quickly turns into a memorable evening. The place is lively, sometimes packed, which only adds to the vibe.

Feliks Bar Café (Nowogrodzka 15)

This bar, rich in character and history, offers a wide range of cocktails to suit every taste. The staff are true enthusiasts who love sharing the stories behind each drink. The interior, inspired by the old Zaremba1894 sewing studio, adds a distinctive charm that makes the place one of a kind. 

“Feliks Bar offers a perfect fusion of style and soul. It’s my go-to venue for an evening out with friends.”

The Morning After (the Night Before) (Poznańska 7)

Breakfast here feels like a little celebration: inventive dishes that look fresh and unexpected, plated with effortless style. Portions are generous, the team is swift and welcoming, and the whole place wraps you in comfort. An ideal hideaway for a lazy morning or an unhurried late brunch.

MUSA Bar (Wilcza 17)

A small, super cozy wine bar with a smart wine list. Tell the bartenders your vibe — they’ll pour the right glass. Creative snacks, and the homemade gelato steals the show. Warm inside, plus a summer terrace made for slow catch-ups.

Joel Sharing Concept (Koszykowa 1)

A sharing-style restaurant focused on enjoying food together. The dishes are bold and original, turning the visit into an experience — culinary, aesthetic, and social. A great spot for a group of friends or a relaxed family dinner.

Places Made for Wandering

As You Like It (Emilii Plater 4)

A hidden gem among Warsaw’s cafés and bookstores, this English-language bookshop is clearly curated with care. The interior is cozy and slightly vintage, making it ideal for finding inspiration, selecting a unique gift, or losing yourself in a good book while enjoying a cup of coffee.

Elektrownia Powiśle (Dobra 42)

A former power plant turned into a modern cultural hub. Inside, you’ll find boutiques, a gourmet food court, regular events, and striking examples of industrial interior design. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or simply exploring, the interplay of architecture and activity makes this a must-visit destination.

Museum of Modern Art

A contemporary art museum and one of the city’s top architecture photo spots. Exhibits are still hit-or-miss, but the program’s growing fast. If you love fresh cultural spaces and taking photos in unusual spots, you’ll be happy here. The vibe: dynamic and experimental.

Copernicus Science Centre

A modern science center with interactive exhibitions, a planetarium, and a robot theater — where almost everything can be touched, tested, and tried. It’s an amazing place for kids, and adults get pulled into the world of science just as quickly.